BEHAVIORAL HEALTH RECOGNITION MONTH

_In October 2011, for the first time ever, New York State celebrated
Behavioral Health Recognition Month. The state's resolution received
broad support from both the NYS Senate and Assembly. Behavioral
Health Recognition Month was instituted to bring together the field of
mental illness, addictions, and veterans in raising public awareness and
understanding of the issues, to recognize individuals and families that
are struggling with mental illnesses and addictions every day, and to
honor the professionals that dedicate their life's work to helping these
individuals.On October 9, 2011 we celebrated the first ever
Behavioral Health Recognition Month with a symposium and celebration at
the Intrepid Sea Air & Space Museum. The event drew nearly 2,000
consumers, providers, family members, and members of the general
public. The program included many distinguished leaders in the
behavioral health field, several live musical performances, and 150 individuals attended professional workshops.